Statement on Bill # 36-0121, an Act to rename the Peter Carl Limpricht  Park the 
TSK Park in honor of the Ten Sleepless Knights quelbe band and making an 
appropriation to effectuate that change, sponsored by Senator Marise James.    
Submitted by Shelley M. Thomas 
  
How do you reward a group of men who, without hesitation, unselfishly give back 
so much to their community? How can I show my appreciation to members of 
these U.S. Virgin Islands, who continuously promote our music, our dance, our 
culture, all over the world. 
  
The Ten Sleepless Knights deserve a billion dollars’ worth of kindness, 
appreciation and honor from those of us who live in the Virgin Islands, and those 
in the greater diaspora. Celebrating 55 years of music, fellowship and respect for 
each other is not an easy feat. The brotherhood that was formed in 1970, has 
withstood hurricanes, elections and technological advancements, and remains a 
constant, unstoppable, transforming part of our society. 
  
I still have fond memories of them playing throughout St. Croix, from Crucian 
Moon, Farchette Night Club, Pucho, Birdland, Seven Flags, Clover Crest, 
Plantation, Villa Morales and Sheridan. That were the days when men danced 
with women, instead of holding up the wall while women dance with each other. 
TSK has fought and continue to fight against the tide of modernization, where 
reggae music has become a reflection of what the next generation desires. 
Imagine going to Jamaica and hearing quelbe in every home, party and bar.  Never 
happen! 
  
I come from a generation that proudly proclaims that we have made our 
contributions to the fabric of the world. Our guava, pineapple, guavaberry and 
coconut tart is us. Our kalaloo (spelled with a K), boiled fish and red peas soup is 
us. Quadrille every Friday night at St. Gerard’s Hall. That is us. 
 
And as I proudly thank Senator James and her Chief of Staff, Sonia Andrew, for 
taking this dream and running with it; it confirms to me that there are still people 
in our community that respect and acknowledge the traditions of our ancestors 
and take pride in holding on to the things that makes us Crucians. No surrender, 
no retreat, no compromise. 
 
To all the members of TSK, you are our ambassadors, relentless in carrying on 
for future generations, even as they might not appreciate it now. You will be 
remembered for your commitment to your people.  Thank you, always.